Congratulations!! You Said Yes, So Now What?

Congrats to all my newly engaged couples out there!! I’m sure many of you are still on a high and your mind is racing with ideas for your big day. I’m sure you have a lot questions and concerns too but don’t panic! Take a deep breath and keep reading . . . . . .

For newly engaged couples, they usually have a hard time getting started with their wedding plans. They are not sure what to do first, where to begin or when to begin. To help all my newly engage couples, here are the items you should focus on now:

Nine Months and Earlier

1) Choose the type of wedding you want: This will set the tone of your wedding. All of your decision will be based off of this choice. Do you want a traditional, contemporary or theme wedding? It’s important to know what you want before you start your purchasing items and booking vendors. You want to make sure all the elements of your wedding have a cohesive look and feeling.
2) Choose a wedding date: This is an easy one and it goes without saying but choosing a date can be a little more calculated than you think. It may be a date of sentimental value, the date that fits your busy life style or if you’re budget conscience it will be the date that gives you the best bang for your buck.
3) Determine a budget: Very important!! Your budget has an effect on all of your wedding plans. No matter how big or small your budget is, it’s important to know how much you would like to spend. You don’t want to start booking anything without knowing your budget because you may choose one element that will take you over budget before you get a chance to book any of the others.
4) Consolidate a guest list: Before you book a venue, you need to know if the space can accommodate the number of guest you are having or that you will have enough guests to meet the spaces minimum. Also your guest count will go hand and hand with your budget. The more guests you are having, the more money you probably spend on your wedding.
5) Reserve your ceremony and reception site: Once the first four decisions are made, you can move on to site selections. It’s important to book as early as you can because many places go fast. Remember there are only 52 weekends a year!!

I hope this helps all the newly of the new engaged couples out there. Stay tune for more planning tips, advice and inspirations. During the month of January, I will be focusing on advice for the newly engaged so be sure to check in for those. While you plan your wedding, just remember to have fun with it, be happy and enjoy every moment of the planning process!!